Two Upstate counties ban “fake pot” sales (AUDIO)

In the wake of the October 4 death of 19-year-old Anderson University basketball player Lamar Jack after his use of synthetic marijuana, the Anderson County Council decided to take emergency action.

The council voted 7-0 Tuesday night to immediately impose an emergency ban on synthetic marijuana and the synthetic stimulant known as “bath salts.” The council voted unanimously two weeks ago on first reading on a permanent ban of the synthetic drugs. However after Jack’s death, Council Chairman Tommy Dunn said council members felt they couldn’t wait for two more meetings.

Dunn says he expects that in two weeks the council will vote on third reading to implement a permanent ban on the drugs. Dunn says he thinks a statewide ban on the drugs will be implemented in the next month.

Greenville County has passed a similar ordinance that also goes in effect immediately. The “bath salts” ordinance in that county meanwhile advanced to second reading. The fine in Greenville County for selling or using the drug would be $500. The synthetic drugs have been sold at gas stations and convenience stores for less than $20.